Top 10 Housing Markets Attracting Foreign Homebuyers in 2025

Have you ever wondered where people from across the globe dream of putting down roots in the United States? As someone who's closely followed the ebb and flow of the housing market for years, I've seen firsthand how international interest can shape local communities and economies. In the first quarter of 2025, the spotlight shines brightly on a few key destinations that are proving particularly magnetic for foreign homebuyers.

Based on the latest data from Realtor.com, the Top 10 Housing Markets for Foreign Homebuyers in 2025 reveal a fascinating interplay of location, economic opportunity, and cultural appeal, with Miami, FL, currently leading the pack by capturing a significant 8.7% of all international online home shopping interest in the U.S.

Top 10 Housing Markets Attracting Foreign Homebuyers in 2025

The Sunshine and Siren Call of Florida: Why Miami Reigns Supreme

It’s perhaps no surprise that Miami continues to hold the top spot. I’ve always felt that Miami offers a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and a thriving international business scene. This trifecta creates a powerful draw for overseas buyers. The allure of the Florida lifestyle, coupled with no state income tax, makes it an attractive proposition. Beyond the sunshine, Miami's established international connections and multilingual community provide a comfortable transition for newcomers. It’s a place where global cultures intersect, and for many, that feels like home away from home.

Beyond the Beaches: Other Heavy Hitters in the Top 10

While Miami leads, the rest of the top 10 paint a diverse picture of what attracts international buyers. These markets, which collectively account for a substantial 46.9% of total international traffic, showcase a range of appealing factors:

• New York, NY (4.9%): The Big Apple’s global status as a financial and cultural hub remains undiminished. Despite its high cost of living, New York City continues to attract those seeking unparalleled career opportunities and a dynamic urban experience. I’ve always believed that New York’s iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods hold a timeless appeal for people from all corners of the world.
• Los Angeles, CA (4.6%): The entertainment capital of the world and a gateway to the Pacific, Los Angeles offers a desirable lifestyle with its pleasant climate and diverse economy. Although affordability can be a challenge, the allure of Hollywood and the Southern California vibe continues to attract international interest.
• Orlando, FL (2.9%): Famous for its theme parks, Orlando presents a different kind of appeal. It offers a more affordable Florida lifestyle compared to Miami and attracts families and those looking for investment properties in the tourism sector. I’ve noticed that Orlando’s growth as a diverse economic center beyond just tourism is also enhancing its international appeal.
• Dallas, TX (2.8%): The rise of Texas in the eyes of international buyers is a significant trend. Dallas, with its growing economy and relatively lower cost of living compared to coastal cities, is becoming an increasingly attractive option. The pro-business environment and job opportunities are key drivers here.
• Houston, TX (2.6%): Another Texas powerhouse, Houston, is known for its energy sector, healthcare, and diverse population. Its affordability and economic opportunities continue to draw international attention. I've always considered Houston a city with immense potential due to its strong industries and global connections.
• Tampa, FL (2.5%): Offering a blend of coastal living and a growing job market, Tampa provides a more relaxed Florida experience compared to Miami, while still offering attractive investment opportunities. Its growing healthcare and technology sectors are also drawing interest.
• Phoenix, AZ (2.3%): The sunny climate and more affordable housing market in Phoenix are attracting buyers, particularly from Canada, as we’ll explore later. The Southwestern charm and outdoor recreational opportunities are also a draw.
• Chicago, IL (2.0%): Despite the challenges of Midwestern winters, Chicago’s rich history, cultural attractions, and diverse economy continue to hold appeal for international buyers, particularly those with ties to the region or seeking opportunities in its established industries.
• Riverside, CA (1.5%): Offering a more affordable alternative to coastal Southern California, Riverside is attracting buyers looking for value and access to the amenities of the greater Los Angeles area. Its proximity to major transportation routes also adds to its appeal.

The Texas Tsunami: Austin and San Antonio Make a Splash

One of the most striking developments in the 2025 Q1 data is the emergence of Austin, TX, and San Antonio, TX, into the top 20 markets. Neither of these cities featured in the top rankings in the first quarters of 2024 or even pre-pandemic in 2020. I’ve been closely watching the Texas market for years, and this surge in international interest doesn’t surprise me.

The reasons behind Texas' growing global appeal are multifaceted:

• Lower Cost of Living: Compared to coastal hubs like California and New York, Texas offers a significantly more affordable cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing. This allows international buyers to get more for their money.
• No State Income Tax: This is a significant financial advantage that attracts individuals and investors alike.
• Pro-Business Environment: Texas’ business-friendly policies have led to significant economic growth and job creation, attracting both individuals looking for employment and businesses seeking to expand or relocate. The move of Realtor.com's headquarters to Austin is a perfect example of this trend.
• Cultural Diversity and Strong Universities: Texas boasts a rich cultural tapestry and numerous renowned universities, making it an attractive destination for families and individuals seeking educational opportunities.
• Robust International Travel Connections: Major Texas cities have well-connected international airports, facilitating travel and business ties.

The appearance of Austin and San Antonio in the top rankings signifies a genuine shift in international buyer preferences towards markets offering both economic opportunity and a more affordable lifestyle.

Western Markets Lose Some Luster: The Case of California and Nevada

Conversely, the data reveals a decline in the appeal of some Western markets that were popular in the past. San Francisco, CA, San Diego, CA, and Las Vegas, NV, all dropped out of the top 20 in 2025 Q1. Having observed these markets for a while, I believe several factors contribute to this shift:

• Affordability Challenges: Persistent high housing costs in San Francisco and San Diego have likely deterred many international buyers. Concerns about long-term returns in such expensive markets also play a role.
• Tech Sector Volatility (San Francisco): Layoffs and slowed hiring in the tech industry have created uncertainty, impacting the appeal of San Francisco, a city heavily reliant on this sector.
• Urban Issues (San Francisco): Challenges such as homelessness and ongoing debates about housing and zoning may be contributing to buyer caution.
• Shifting Priorities: Perhaps international buyers are prioritizing markets offering a better balance of affordability and growth potential, leading them to explore options beyond the traditional West Coast hotspots.

While these cities still possess undeniable attractions, it seems that economic realities and concerns about stability are influencing international buyer decisions.

Who is Buying? Canada Still Leads, But Interest Cools

When we look at the origin of international homebuyers, Canada remains the top source, accounting for 34.7% of international online traffic in 2025 Q1. Buyers from the U.K. (5.7%), Mexico (5.4%), Germany (3.8%), and Australia (3.2%) also show significant interest.

However, a notable trend is the decline in the share of traffic from Canada, which dropped from 40.7% in 2024 Q1. This decrease coincided with the implementation of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, suggesting a potential link between trade relations and real estate interest. Interestingly, Canadian interest saw the largest drop in Florida markets like Naples and Cape Coral, as well as in Phoenix, Arizona.

The Border Effect: Mexican Buyers Favor Proximity

In contrast to the more dispersed preferences of buyers from other nations, Mexican homebuyers show a strong inclination towards U.S. cities along the border, such as San Diego, San Antonio, Dallas, El Paso, and Houston. This makes perfect sense to me. The proximity to home facilitates cultural and language connections, strengthens family and business networks, and allows for easier access to education, healthcare, and cross-border travel. These factors make border cities both practical and familiar for Mexican buyers seeking both residence and investment opportunities. San Antonio, Riverside, and Chicago see the highest proportion of interest from Mexican homebuyers within the top 20 markets.

Despite similar tariffs being applied to Mexican imports, the decrease in traffic from Mexico was less significant than that from Canada, perhaps indicating the strength of these long-standing cross-border ties.

Looking Ahead: Trends and Predictions

Based on this data, I believe several key trends will continue to shape the landscape of international homebuying in the U.S.:

• The Rise of the Sun Belt: Markets in Florida and Texas will likely continue to attract significant international interest due to their favorable climates, affordability (relative to coastal giants), and growing economies.
• Economic Factors as Key Drivers: Economic stability, job opportunities, and cost of living will remain primary considerations for foreign buyers.
• Geopolitical Influences: International relations and trade policies can indeed impact cross-border real estate interest, as evidenced by the dip in Canadian traffic.
• The Importance of Connectivity: Cities with strong international flight connections and established global communities will continue to be favored.

For anyone considering selling or investing in these top markets, understanding these international trends can provide a significant advantage. Tailoring marketing efforts and understanding the specific needs of different buyer demographics can lead to greater success.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase property in a foreign country is a significant one, influenced by a complex interplay of personal circumstances, economic factors, and global events. The Top 10 Housing Markets for Foreign Homebuyers in 2025 offer a fascinating snapshot of where global dreams are currently taking root in the United States.